Rome City Guide

Rome, the eternal city, has a special way of captivating every visitor with its rich history, magnificent architecture, and delectable cuisine. I'm beyond thrilled to share my guide to Rome with you.

History and Architecture

Start your journey at the Colosseum to soak in the grandeur of ancient Rome. You can’t miss the Pantheon, an architectural marvel, and the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Roman political life. And for a cultural treat, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are absolutely must-sees.

Street Food Heaven

Rome's street food scene is legendary. Here are the must-try items:

  • Supplì: Fried rice balls filled with mozzarella—so addictive!
  • Trapizzino: Pizza dough pockets filled with traditional Roman stews.
  • Pizza al Taglio: Roman-style pizza sold by the slice, perfect for a quick bite.
  • Porchetta: Succulent, seasoned roast pork in a sandwich.
  • Carciofi alla Giudia: Crispy, Jewish-style fried artichokes—delicious!

Savor the Markets

To feel the pulse of Rome, wander through its bustling markets. Campo de' Fiori offers a vibrant mix of fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies. For the best street food, head to Testaccio Market. This foodie paradise in the Testaccio neighborhood is rich in history and offers diverse delights.

Dining in Rome

For a sit-down meal, you must visit these incredible restaurants:

  • La Villetta: An iconic Roman spot where you might bump into some famous Romans or sit under one of the many pictures of Totti.
  • La Tavernaccia Da Bruno: A bit outside the city center, but worth it for typical Umbrian and Roman food.
  • Trattoria da Cesare al Casaletto: Known for its fun ambiance and excellent food. You’ll need a taxi to get here, but it’s totally worth it.
  • Bottega Trattoria de Santis: Usually my first stop—full disclosure, the owner is a dear family friend, but the food is incredible. Start with the baccalà and caponata, which comes with rosemary muffins, and always get the amatriciana for your main.
  • Trattoria al Moro: A must for lunch after visiting the Trevi Fountain, with iconic plates that perfectly complement the historic setting.

  

  

Pizza in Rome

Rome and pizza go hand in hand, especially with the famous pizza rossa. I love grabbing it at every forno I stop in, but here are my top favorites:

  • Pizzarium Bonci: Known for its gourmet pizza al taglio with a variety of toppings.
  • Roscioli Forno: A staple for delicious pizza and baked goods.
  • Forno Campo de' Fiori: A classic spot in the heart of Rome, perfect for a quick and tasty slice.

Let’s Talk Sweets

Sweets are my ultimate expertise, and I promise to get a maritozzi recipe on this site very soon. No trip to Rome is complete without indulging in its pastries and gelato. Pasticceria Regoli is a top spot for maritozzi, those heavenly cream-filled sweet buns, and other delights. Don’t miss Gelateria del Teatro for some of the best gelato in the city, with unique flavors made from fresh, local ingredients. For traditional Roman sweets, head to Pasticceria De Bellis, where classic recipes meet modern twists. And for the best coffee, make sure to stop by Sant'Eustachio Il Caffè.

Aperitivo and Coffee

For a delightful aperitivo or coffee, visit Sciascia Caffè 1919. This historic café offers a charming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with a drink or a coffee. For something more luxurious, check out the new Bvlgari Hotel and visit their rooftop. I recently went for an aperitivo, and everything from the scent upon arrival to the service was fabulous. The aperitivo was not your usual Roman (or Italian) fare, featuring caviar and tartare, but it was a magical experience.

 

Rome is a city that celebrates life through its food, culture, and history. Whether you’re exploring its ancient landmarks or indulging in a culinary adventure, Rome will leave you with memories to cherish. Buon viaggio e buon appetito!

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